Healthy Fan

Germ-Killing UV-C

Ultraviolet light comprises the section of the electromagnetic spectrum between 10 nm to 400 nm, wavelengths just shorter than those of visible light. The three types of ultraviolet light-A, B and C-are distinguished by their specific wavelengths and the corresponding energy they produce.

Emitted from the sun, UV-A and UV-B rays are commonly known as the producers of vitamin D in the skin and the culprits behind sunburn. UV-C rays are naturally blocked by the earth’s atmosphere-however; scientists have discovered an important purpose for harnessing this particular form of energy. For over 50 years, laboratories and hospitals have tapped into the germ-killing power of UV-C.

The remarkably precise source of energy (253.7 nanometers) that UV-C emits has the ability to sterilize the air by destroying bacteria, viruses and spores. The energy emitted by UV-C also alters the germ’s DNA so it cannot reproduce. UV-C has been proven effective against salmonella, influenza, e-coli, staph, strep and tuberculosis.

The use of UV-C to combat tuberculosis-a disease known for its rampant airborne transmission and drug-resistant strain mutations-has been studied since the 50s and is a well-documented example of UV-C’s capabilities as a germ-fighter. A recent study published in PLoS Medicine in March 2009 found that UV lights were able to prevent 70 percent of tuberculosis infections among a group of test guinea pigs. In addition, the study highlighted the added benefits associated with using UV-C technology in conjunction with proper room air circulation.

Further scientific research has demonstrated that when room air is continually mixed using proper traditional ceiling fan technology, the effect of UV-C air sterilization is dramatically improved. The germ-killing ability of UV-C energy is powerful, but its use in combination with proper room air mixing  is the unique element that is crucial to the effectiveness of the Healthy Fan system .

The Healthy Fan Technology

The Healthy Fan system works by properly circulating the air in a room, trapping dust particles and allergens in the Dust Grabber Filter^TM . Healthy Fan utilizes  air flow over the polypropolene filter material to impart a charge — similar to when a comb becomes charged when used on hair.

The charged filter medium attracts and holds coarse dust particles and allergens. Important to note is that some germs, especially virus cells, are extremely tiny (<.3 microns) and, therefore, can be suspended in air (aerosolized). These are the target of the Healthy Fan’s intense level of UV-C energy, which emits energy in the proven spectrum that alters the DNA of germs and kills them. The result is a greather than 99 percent reduction in airborne bacteria, viruses and mold spores. Through proper maximization of room air circulation, The Healthy Fan can effectively sanitize an average houseful of air every 15 minutes.

Healthy Fan is a safe way to utilize the germ-killing power of UV-C. The UV-C energy is absorbed and controlled to extend to a circumference defined by the diameter of the ceiling fan and within only 3 inches of the ceiling plane. A user is never directly able to view, or be in contact with, the UV-C emitter bulb, which is always shielded by the medallion cover. If a user should remove the medallion cover, a microswitch will inactivate the circuit and the bulbs will not be lit.

On average, the bulbs will last 8,000 hours. In comparison, an ordinary 100 watt household bulb will last 750 hours. Even with heavy and continuous use, one can expect about 2 years of life from the UV-C emitter.

Health Benefits

By significantly reducing the amount of airborne bacteria, viruses and mold spores, the Healthy Fan helps cut down on illness in a household, especially in those with vulnerable individuals, like infants or the elderly. Used as a preventive measure, Healthy Fan will not only help keep family members healthy, but will also serve as an economic investment, reducing down time and lost productivity due to illness, along with minimizing health care expenses.

Beyond eliminating the bacteria and viruses that cause many common illnesses, research has also shown that using a product like Healthy Fan may help prevent more serious health risks for children. SIDS, or a sudden unexplained death of a seemingly healthy baby, kills about 2,500 infants annually. It is the leading cause of death in children between one month and one year of age.

A study published in 2008 in the Archives of Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine found that using a fan while a baby is sleeping can cut the risk of SIDS by 72 percent. The study was based on the hypothesis that SIDS is related to babies re-breathing exhaled carbon dioxide that gets trapped near them in bedding. The study suggested that the use of a fan increases air circulation, thus minimizing the build up of trapped carbon dioxide and the risk of re-breathing.

The technology behind Healthy Fan system makes it possible for individuals to take a simple and effective step toward a healthier environment for their families. From the ability to lessen the amount of everyday germs to the potential to avoid more serious health issues, Healthy Fan presents an opportunity to have added illness prevention and peace of mind in the home.